The Roman Catholic Church has elected a new pope, as thick white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Thursday, drawing loud applause from the thousands of pilgrims and tourists gathered in St Peter’s Square.

According to Guardian reports, the symbolic smoke signaled that one of the 133 cardinals in the papal conclave had secured the required two-thirds majority vote to become the next pontiff.

Moments later, the bells of St Peter’s Basilica rang out in confirmation, marking the conclusion of the centuries-old ritual of electing a pope.

The decision came on the second day of the conclave, following the fourth ballot. While the identity of the new pope was not immediately disclosed, tradition suggests an announcement will be made within the hour, when the chosen cardinal is expected to appear on the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica.

The election follows the death of Pope Francis in April at the age of 88. His successor was selected swiftly, despite the large and diverse group of cardinals participating in the vote. Most of them were appointed by Francis himself, known for promoting a global and inclusive vision of the Church.

As the faithful waved Vatican flags and cheered in anticipation, the world now awaits the formal introduction of the new spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics worldwide.